Dartmouth Square has been the subject of controversy in recent years after it was sold to a businessman who tried to develop it commercially.
Labour Dublin City Councillor and former Lord Mayor Mary Freehill, said in a statement: “In relation to the proposal to present the ground lease of part of Dartmouth Sq. for sale at next Tuesdays Auction in the Shelburne Hotel, I want to point out that Dartmouth Sq is zoned ‘Open Space’ which also has a tree preservation Order.
"This means that this zoning does not permit any construction on the park. Anybody tempted to bid is either an idiot or a philanthropist, as Dublin City Council will never give permission for anything other than vegetation. It has always been the Council’s intention that this park is a space for public enjoyment and that will not change in the future.”
The square is enclosed by iron railings, extends to two acres and is listed with a reserve price of €140,000.